Endura's FS260-Pro Slick Overshoes are remarkably waterproof, provide a comfortable fit and are easy to get on. Just make sure you take care of the waterproof coating because it isn't as tough as it looks.
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Material
The overshoes are made up of 67% nylon, 23% PU (polyurethane) and 10% elastane. Endura claims that the stretchy waterproof body allows for a compact overshoe that can easily fit into a rear pocket when you don't need them. I have to agree, they are remarkably light and don't feel bulky at all.
The Lycra rear panel and sprung zipper will fit over any funny straps or heel design your shoes might have, and the open sole means your cleats never get stuck while putting them on. Even with a 10mm spacer under one of my Speedplay pedals this operation was easy.
The high-vis green and reflectors help make me very visible, and the silicone grippers ensured they stayed in position during wet and windy rides.
Although the product feels well made, the PU coating got damaged because of a bit of toe overlap; it removed the coating completely and provided a small hole where water could penetrate. That said, I couldn't tell whether any water was getting in (it didn't seem to be), but I could feel more air coming through.
Fit and adjustment
The Slick overshoes live up to their name in terms of fit, and provide a snug but comfortable cover over several types and makes of shoe. I would suggest you try them on before buying if possible to ensure you have the right size and a good fit around the sole of your shoes. There is very little adjustment other than the stretchy nature of the fabric, and although the open sole makes them easy to fit it could allow water to track in if the fit isn't snug enough.
Windproof and waterproof
During my rides, which included 30-minute commutes and 3-4 hours rides in the rain, my feet stayed dry and the fabric did a good job of reducing windchill. My only criticism is that because of the lightweight design, the overshoes don't have the ability to retain heat in your feet, and as soon as your feet start getting cold there is no turning back.
During high tempo rides this was less of an issue, but if you intend to go touring at a more comfortable pace, I'd suggest a set of thick merino socks would go a long way to keeping your feet warmer for longer.
I did get a small amount of water entering the shoes from my bib tights, but this wasn't anything significant and generally happens once the tights are saturated.
> Check out our guide to essential wet weather gear and clothing here
Value
With an RRP of £22.99, these aren't the cheapest overshoes you could buy, but they work well and do everything the manufacturer claims, which is a big tick in my book. Determining whether they are value for money will depend on how your treat them: this mid-range overshoe should last several winters if you look after the PU coating and don't generally have a problem with toe overlap. Otherwise, you could find yourself buying one or two pairs a year.
To my mind they're well priced and good value – a little cheaper than the similar Northwave H2O Winter Shoecovers tested by Ash earlier this month, and a lot less than those we've tested from Castelli and Rapha recently. (Have a look at other road.cc reviews of overshoes here.)
Overall
Everything considered, I think Endura has produced a well-made, easy-to-use and comfortable pair of overshoes for a reasonable price, and they tick all the boxes for me. They're available in four colours, and many would probably go for the black or silver finish, but the Hi-Viz Green (there's also white) provides a good option for the safety-conscious among us. I'll certainly be buying a pair once mine need replacing.
Verdict
Well made, easy to use and great waterproofing at a reasonable price
Make and model: Endura FS260-Pro Slick Overshoe
Size tested: Large, Hi-Viz Green
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
Endura says:
"Compact, packable overshoe with High Stretch waterproof body fabric
Compact overshoe that fits in a jersey pocket
High stretch waterproof PU main body fabric
Rear panel in lycra for additional accomodation
Silicone gripper at ankle hem and on sole strap
YKK rear zipper for access with sprung puller
Reflective print bar on rear heel"
They're suitable for all riders whether you commute, race or even just do the odd social ride in the cold and wet.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
Construction
Nylon 67%
PU 23%
Elastane 10%
Fabrics & Technologies
YKK®
Rate the product for quality of construction:
9/10
Rate the product for performance:
9/10
Rate the product for durability:
5/10
The PU coating is susceptible to impact damage; it's not a wear-and-tear issue, but be aware of potentially damaging toe overlap, for example.
Rate the product for fit:
9/10
Rate the product for sizing:
8/10
Rate the product for weight:
10/10
At 93g you won't even notice them.
Rate the product for comfort:
9/10
Rate the product for value:
8/10
How easy is the product to care for? How did it respond to being washed?
Very easy to keep clean.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
The overshoes worked well in all conditions and once you start cycling you hardly notice them. Well, other than the bright green.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
Very easy to get on.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
They don't retain any heat because of the lightweight material, but they're not designed to.
Did you enjoy using the product? Yes
Would you consider buying the product? Yes
Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes
Use this box to explain your score
They're very good. During the test period I found myself picking these over my Rapha and Castelli overshoes, which are at least double the price. They are quick and easy to put on in the morning on my way to work, and the only problem I had was down to damage that I had caused. A very good product at a reasonable price.
Age: 30 Height: 183cm Weight: 86kg
I usually ride: Surly Cross-check My best bike is: Cipollini Bond
I've been riding for: 5-10 years I ride: Most days I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, time trialling, commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding, I'll give anything a go
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1 comments
Mine fell apart after one ride. Waterproof material lifted at the heel. I did no walking and it wasn't even the foot I unclip when stopping.